The Impact of Heavy Snowfall on Home Care: A 2018 Case Study in Fukui City, Japan

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: Little is known regarding how home care is affected by extreme weather. In February 2018, Fukui City in Japan experienced unprecedented levels of snowfall. We examined snowfall impact on the provision of home care to elucidate whether patients incurred any harm. Methods: A retrospective observational study using clinical and administrative records from a clinic in Fukui City was conducted on 294 patients (mean age = 69.9 ± 27.7 years; women = 60.5%, median age = 81). The study period was from February 5 to February 18, 2018. We analysed the patients’ characteristics, daily trend of planned/actual patient visits, emergency transportation situations, and local snow accumulation. We summarized the situation in the clinic. Results: There were 326 planned home visits, however only 121 (37%) occurred. Despite this, there were only 2 emergency transfers. Although the available clinical staff was limited, they managed to contact most patients via telephone and social networking services. Conclusion: Although the number of home visits dramatically decreased, the number of emergency transfers did not increase. This study therefore highlights the necessity for effective disaster preparation, such as assessment training, or use of telemedicine, and on-site decision-making to maintain home care during disasters.